Buccaneers vs. Seahawks: 5 key matchups to watch closely

TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 27: Quarterback Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks evades defensive end Robert Ayers #91 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the fourth quarter of an NFL game on November 27, 2016 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 27: Quarterback Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks evades defensive end Robert Ayers #91 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the fourth quarter of an NFL game on November 27, 2016 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA – AUGUST 29: Middle linebacker Bobby Wagner #54 of the Seattle Seahawks warms up prior to the preseason game against the Oakland Raiders at CenturyLink Field on August 29, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA – AUGUST 29: Middle linebacker Bobby Wagner #54 of the Seattle Seahawks warms up prior to the preseason game against the Oakland Raiders at CenturyLink Field on August 29, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)

Jameis Winston vs. Bobby Wagner

Outside of already playing Luke Kuechly twice this season, Winston will now have to stare down perhaps the best middle linebacker in the league today in Bobby Wagner. Winston struggles to identify coverages underneath of his intended targets, and has had more than one pass intercepted by linebackers this season.

Wagner is the cream of the crop, the only linebacker in the 99 club in Madden 20, and a bonafide All Pro. A five time Pro Bowler and four-time All Pro linebacker, Wagner is well on his way to his sixth straight appearance in the NFL’s all-star affairs; on pace for 150 tackles, the most he has had in three years, Wagner has also tallied four tackles for loss and a sack from the middle of the Seattle defense this season.

He is grading out in the green according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required) at a grade of 70.6. If Winston does not keep a close eye on Wagner, another ball intended 10 yards further downfield could end up in his hands just as the interception by Kuechly in London a few weeks ago.

The lifeblood of the Seattle defense, Winston and the Bucs must know where and what Wagner is doing at all times today.

Schedule